Indiana’s Deadly Residents: Understanding the State’s Venomous Snakes

A couple of things instantly come to mind when you about Indiana - basketball and cornfields. Others might associate the Hoosier state with the Indianapolis 500 or maybe even limestone. Most of us would probably NOT think of venomous snakes when we think of Indiana - but the fact is, some dangerous snakes can be found in Indiana.

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According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Indiana is home to 33 different native species of snakes, most of which are harmless to humans - like Gartersnakes, Watersnakes, Ratsnakes, and Kingsnakes. Indiana is home to only four species of venomous snakes. And while those species are listed as endangered, that doesn't mean they are extinct. They are still in our state and they can still seriously injure or even kill you.

Venomous Snakes You May Encounter in Indiana

Now that the weather is warming up and we're all getting out more, that means the odds of us encountering any kind of snake are increasing. So, just be mindful of these four species of snakes, cause you just never know if/when you'll run into one of them.

Copperhead

Copperheads are only found in the southern third of the state.

Cottonmouth/Water Moccasin

Cottonmouths, also known as Water Moccasins, are considered endangered in Indiana. They are only found in one small area in southwestern Indiana.

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Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake

Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes are found in the northern third of Indiana.

Timber Rattlesnake

Timber Rattlesnakes can be found in south-central Indiana.